Questions Parents Should Ask When Choosing a School for Their Child

Children vary in personality and in learning style so different schools will be right for different children. 

Asking the following questions might help you discover the right school for your child.  We invite you to ask these questions, and any others you might have when you visit Mustard Seed School.

Academics
•    What does the school emphasize?
•    What high schools and colleges do the graduates attend? 
•    What is the teaching style?

Day to Day Life At School
•    What will the day be like for the children? 
•    How will each child feel like they are valued as a part of a community?
•    What kinds of opportunities are there for service in the school, the community, and the world?
•    How is my child’s faith nurtured?

Faculty and Staff
•    How do teachers come to know their students?
•    What support structures are in place for the staff?
•    What professional development is offered to the teachers?

Students
•    What diversity is present in the school?
•    How do students work through conflict?

Parents
•    How are parents involved in the life of the school?
•    What types of parent-teacher communication occur? 

Mission
•    What is the school’s mission statement?
•    What are the goals of the school?
 
Things to Consider
•    What am I looking for in a school?
•    In what environment would my child thrive?
•    What are my child’s gifts?
•    Where does my child need to grow?
•    Is diversity important to me?
•    What were some significant experiences in my own education?  Why?

Things to Observe

Environment
This shows what a school values.  Look at the walls to see what is displayed and how it reflects the students and what they are learning.
•    Are the classrooms warm and inviting?
•    How does it feel to be here?
•    Can I envision my child learning in this place and thriving in this community?

Day to Day School Life
•    How are the arts a part of the curriculum? 
•    Is there a rhythm that anchors the day, giving the students a sense of safety and predictability, as well as a sense of wonder and expectation?
•    Do the students have opportunities to work together and collaborate on projects?

Teachers and Students
•    How do students respond to faculty and staff?
•    How well do teachers know their students?
•    How do the students interact?  How do they speak to one another?
•    Are students invested in their learning?  How can you tell?
•    Did you get to meet some students?  If so, what do they say about the school?